The main aim in using micro-needling therapy is to trigger immune responses leading to collagen and elastin synthesis. The most popular micro- needling devices are derma-rollers and dermapens. The rollers are usually used as maintenance therapy at home. Dermapens are commonly used in aesthetic practices. Their advantages are many: the needles enter the skin at 90 degrees thus causing minimal or no epidermal tearing which is frequently seen after using rollers. The speed. Needle depth and number of needles are adjustable. They can reach facial areas which are hard to reach with rollers. The needles are single use and sterile which helps to avoid the need for sterilization and it ensures their high quality and sharpness. The range of needles is from 0.25 to 2.0 mm.

How does Dermapen work?

Dermapen with its high speed causes multiple tiny skin piercings. The punctures create tiny channels which through the body’s own responses and repair processes are further filled with collagen and elastin. The skin becomes rejuvenated. Additionally Dermapen can work as a delivery device for skin products. Usually vitamin cocktails, hyaluronic acid and peptides are applied during the treatment. They are much better absorbed by the perforated skin which this leads to better results.

What results can I expect after the treatment with Dermapen?

The results include improvement in the skin appearance. The skin becomes rejuvenated with less wrinkles, less fine lines, improvement in post acne and post-surgical scars, in stretch marks, in many pigmentation disorders, in pore size as well as in hair loss. The procedure is well tolerated, cost effective and it can be done on skin areas which are not suitable for other resurfacing methods like peelings or lasers. Especially good results are achieved around the eyes and mouth.

How long do the results last?

Even after one treatment some improvement in the skin texture can be seen, but best results are achieved after series of 4-6 treatments, 4 weeks apart. After a full course the skin continues to improve over the next 6 months. The final results vary from patient to patient but on an average they last up to 18 months. Many practitioners recommend a maintenance treatment every 6-12 months. Smokers do not achieve the same positive outcome as non-smokers because tobacco toxins diminish cellular responsiveness.

Are there any special preparation before the treatment?

No special preparation is needed. On the day of the treatment the patient does not need to be fasting. Patients taking Aspirin, anti-coagulants (Warfarin), non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (diclofenac, ibuprofen etc) may consider to stop taking them for a week prior the treatment, in order to minimalize bruising and only after consultation with their physician. For the same reason it is also recommended to stop taking supplements like Omega 3, garlic, Vitamin E.

Patients who have thin and delicate skin would benefit from using topical vitamins (vitamin C, A) until 24 hours prior the treatment as this helps to achieve more desirable results. Self-tanning lotions/sprays must be stopped 48 hours before the procedure. Prior to the treatment, for at least a week, intense sun exposure is also strongly discouraged.

How long is the treatment?

This depends on the problem of the patient and the areas treated. But usually the procedure does not take longer than 45 minutes.

Is there any anesthesia needed?

Generally no anesthesia is needed because the Dermapens’ needles are very thin and they operate at a very fast speed, therefore the procedure is not very painful. For patients who prefer to be pain free, a topical anesthetic cream (numbing) is applied before the procedure.

What are the potential side effects and complications during and after the treatment?

Possible risks and side effects include: bruising, very mild bleeding, swelling, discomfort, burning sensations, skin discolouration, scarring, infection, dizziness and nausea as well as allergic reactions. The side effects are temporary.

What are the contraindications for micro-needling therapy?

Contraindications include: bleeding disorder, pregnancy, breast breastfeeding, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, compromised immune system or AIDS, active acne and rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, scleroderma, lupus, concurrent use of anticoagulant medications, history of keloids and/or hypertrophic scars, liver disease, serious kidney disease, raised lesions ( moles, warts),vascular lesions (hemangiomas), telangiectasia, recent chemical peeling, active skin infection - bacterial or viral as well as known allergy to any ingredient used during micro-needling procedure. Patients who used Roaccutane should wait at least 6 months before micro-needling.

What are the aftercare instructions?

After skin rejuvenation with micro- needling, one may apply ice packs to reduce the swelling, avoid scrubbing the treated area for at least 24hours. Make up can be applied after 24hours. One must not wash the skin directly after the procedure for 5 hours and use only a gentle face wash. Avoidance of direct intense heat, strenuous exercises and sauna for minimum of 48 hours. Avoidance of sun and applying sun screen protection (SPF 50 plus) for at least 1 month after the therapy is imperative.